Nootropics - The Ultimate Guide

There are various types of nutrients which are said to have nootropic effects. In particular, foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids are regarded as being particularly effective. Sources of Omega 3 include fish and hemp (in countries where hemp is not banned for its association with marijuana). Omega 3 fatty acids are proven to have a beneficial effect on brain function and any person seeking to boost their brain power should first consider their diet. A diet poor in Omega 3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients is detrimental to brain function.
adrafinil nootropics

HerbsHerbal nootropics are popular as they are less regulated than drug based nootropics and yet can be very effective.

TeaArguably the most popular beverage in the history of mankind. Tea has both nootropic and anti oxidant effects which help shield the brain from the effects of aging. Tea leaves contain over 700 different chemicals, many of which are vitamins, amino acids and flavanoids. Tea lowers blood pressure, prevents dental cavities, prevents heart disease and acts as a germicide. It is widely regarded as having beneficial effects on brain function, promoting alertness and wakefulness in a gentle fashion.Tea has a wide range of beneficial effects on human health, which include:
• Anti cancer activity
• Increased metabolism
• Potential anti diabetes activity
• Alertness booster
• Immune system booster
• Lower stress hormones Studies have shown that elderly Japanese who imbibed two or more cups of tea per day had a 50% less chance of developing cognitive impairment when compared to those who did not drink tea. Drinking tea is therefore an excellent long term strategy for preserving cognitive function.

CaffieneCompeting with tea in the popular beverage stakes caffeine as found in the Coffee plant is well known for its mild stimulant effects. Technically it is a psychoactive stimulant drug. In nature its effect is to paralyze and kill insects which try to feed on plants. In small doses caffeine does not kill humans (though it is possible to overdose on caffeine to mortal effect.)

Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and acts as an effective solution to drowsiness. When taken in moderation its effects last from three to four hours. During those three to four hours a person will feel more alert and have more energy. Caffeine relaxes the anal sphincter, and therefore can cause problems for those who experience incontinence of the fecal kind.Caffeine interacts positively with pain medications, making them more effective and quicker in their task.

Studies have shown that the addition of caffeine can make pain relievers up to 40% more effective at relieving pain cause by headaches.Caffeine is addictive, the symptoms of withdrawal commonly being headaches, moodiness and even nausea. Regular caffeine users invariably develop a tolerance to caffeine which means they will require ever larger doses of the drug to have a positive effect.Overdoses of caffeine can result in tremors, anxiety attacks, obsessive compulsive symptoms and can even mimic serious mental diseases such as bipolar disorder, or in extreme cases, schizophrenia.As with all things, caffeine is best taken in moderation.
GinsengA perennial native of Asia. It reportedly acts an adaptogen, a chemical which improves the body’s response to stress. It also possesses anti carcinogenic and antioxidant properties.

Ginseng can cause insomnia, nausea and euphoria amongst other, usually mild, side effects. Ginseng can interact with other medications however, so if one is taking any form of medication, one should consult with one’s doctor before taking Ginseng supplements. Ginseng as is found in beverages is usually safe as it is present in such small amounts that no effect is to be had on the body.

St John’s WortA perennial plant often used to treat depression, St John’s Wort has decided cognitive enhancement effects. It is effective in both adults and children and may even be effective in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

It is possible to overdose on St John’s Wort and cause Seratonin Syndrome, which is outlined in the section ‘Dangers of Nootropics’.Other herbal nootropic substances include:
• Lemon Balm
• Grape Seed Extract
• Passion Flower Kava Kava